Airdrie

Specsavers Airdrie become Dementia Friends

27 May, 2016

Following Dementia Awareness Week, the team at Specsavers in Airdrie is supporting Dementia Friends, an Alzheimer’s Society initiative, to help people develop an understanding of dementia and turn it into action to support customers and employees who are affected by the condition.

Specsavers employees nationwide are completing a Dementia awareness programme. In doing so, they become recognised as a Dementia Friend.

Support and care

Andrew McGonagle store director of Specsavers in Airdrie says: ‘Being more aware of dementia is an incredibly positive development for our team and our offering to customers.

‘I always thought dementia was all to do with someone’s memory – but it is much more than that. By uncovering the truth about dementia it really opened my eyes to how at Specsavers, when performing our daily duties, we can all take a little time to support and care.’

Comprehensive training

Specsavers learning and development manager Samantha Jessop said: ‘By providing dementia awareness training we are taking necessary steps to equip all colleagues with the necessary skills to support all of our customers and continue to provide the same excellent service that we pride ourselves upon, regardless of the personal struggles any of our customers may be facing. I’m delighted we are now offering this as part of our core training offer.’

The comprehensive training covers all aspects of dementia and discusses how it affects people in different ways. With particular relevance to Specsavers it also describes how senses can be affected, including sight and hearing.